Athens will spend roughly $1.8 million over the next 20 years to help fund Baileys Trail, the largest contiguous mountain bike trail system east of the Mississippi River.
City Council members approved the funding at their meeting Monday night in what Council President Chris Knisely called “an historic moment.” Council was previously asked to pay $90,000 a year for 20 years to help fund the trail.
“I’ve never had an ordinance like this one come before me,” Councilman Jeff Risner, D-2nd ward, said.
The 88-mile long trail would wind through the Wayne National Forest through Nelsonville and Chauncey. The total price tag for the project, which has been in the works since 1994, would be $10 million.
The city’s share of that money will come from Athens’ transient guest tax. Councilwoman Chris Fahl, D-4th Ward, said earlier this year that some of the funding could come from including local Airbnbs in the tax.
“(The tax has been brought up recently) probably because of the discussion of the Bailey’s project and short-term rental regulations being discussed,” Fahl said in a September email.
The trail would reportedly increase tourism dramatically in the area. It has widespread support from more than 50 partners and collaborators, but Councilman Patrick McGee cast doubt on the amount of visitors the area could see.
More than a hundred thousand visitors annually, McGee said, might be “wishful thinking.” Still, he said the investment was worthwhile for Athens.
